Richard Lewis

Richard Lewis (Born 29th June 1947, New York, US) (Died 27th February 2024, Los Angeles, US) was a comedian and friend of Larry David.

Character History[]

Richard and Larry apparently knew each other for a long time and have a number of things in common, both being comedians and moving to Los Angeles from New York to pursue their careers. Richard is also a recovering alcoholic and drug abuser, which is occasionally used as a running gag. Throughout the series Richard dates a number of girls more attractive than him and who he always claims is "the one." The relationships are usually ruined by Larry's antics or Richard breaks up with the girl for superficial reasons. In season five Richard Lewis developed Kidney Disease and needed a transplant. When it turned out both Larry and Jeff Greene were blood type matches, the two fought over who would be forced to give the kidney. Larry decided he would do it in the season finale after a life changing trip to Arizona, though he quickly tried to get out of it after he reverted to his old ways. Richard got the kidney from Larry and went on vacation with a new girlfriend, even though Larry was dying from the post-transplant.

Personal Life & Death[]

Following a battle with Parkinson's since April 2023, Lewis died of a heart attack on February 27, 2024. He was 76.

Friends and colleagues have made statements regarding Lewis' death:

HBO (Producers of the show: 'Curb Your Enthusiasm') said on Wednesday 28th February 2024: "We are heartbroken to learn that Richard Lewis has passed away. His comedic brilliance, wit and talent were unmatched," HBO said in a statement. "Richard will always be a cherished member of the HBO and "Curb Your Enthusiasm" families, our heartfelt condolences go out to his family, friends and all the fans who could count on Richard to brighten their days with laughter."

'Curb Your Enthusiasm' co-star Cheryl Hines said: "Through the years I learned who Richard really was and the gifts he gave," Hines said. "Yes, he was the comedian I fell in love with, but he was also one of the most loving people I know. He would take time to tell the people he loved what they meant to him —especially in recent years. In between takes on Curb, he would tell me how special I was to him and how much he loved me. To be loved by Richard Lewis. A true gift."

In a statement shared with NBC News, Larry David said he’ll never forgive Lewis for making him cry upon learning of his friend’s death. David, the creator of 'Curb Your Enthusiasm' and friend of Lewis goes on to say: “Richard and I were born three days apart in the same hospital and for most of my life he’s been like a brother to me. He had that rare combination of being the funniest person and also the sweetest,” David said. “But today he made me sob and for that I’ll never forgive him.”